Mid-term 2 short essay questions

PLS 2010 Mid-term 2 Name: __________________________ Short Answer Questions Points 30 For the short answer questions, you need to answer two of the following questions. One from Part A and One from Part B. Each answer should provide more than just definitions of key terms. For these answers you need to link multiple course concepts to answer the broader question (the first question in each prompt) for most questions this includes stating your opinion as part of your answer or show you understand the process that can led to your answer. Make sure that you reference the terms in bold in your answer. This does not mean that you need to include a definition for each bolded term; however, make sure that you demonstrate that understand the role the term plays in answering your overall question. This may include a short definition for some terms but it is not required to get full credit for the answer. Part 1: Parties and Political Ideology – answer 1 of 2 questions (15 points) 1. Is the two-party system ( Republicans and Democrats ) in the United States effective in representing the wide range of political attitudes that exist in the United States? In answering your question be sure to discuss how political parties reflect liberal and conservative political ideology . Also consider how political values , attitudes , and ideology shape the nature of our catch-all parties . Would ideological representation in the United States benefit from a third party? 2. How do we translate political values into political ideology ? What role does political socialization play in shape our political attitudes and what does it say about our choice in political parties? Consider what other factors we discussed that help determine our different political attitudes from our shared values. Part 2: Voting in the United States – answer 1 of 2 questions (15 points) 1. Are SMDP electoral systems effective for determining representation in American Politics? In your answer consider the strengths and weaknesses of SMDP electoral systems. Is it true that they limit third parties to role of spoiler party ? How does this impact the choices that voters or parties make? Are rank choice voting or majoritarian run-off elections a way to improve our current electoral system? 2. Explain why candidates for office so often seem to flip-flop on policy positions between primary elections and general elections. What is the impact of having primary elections on undecide voters? Finally, If you were a party leader would you prefer open or closed primary elections, or potentially a single-ballot open primary like California? Extra Credit: (3 points) 1. What two states do not use a winner take all approach to electoral college votes (in other words what two states divide their electoral college votes)? 2. What is the Bull Moose Party? 3. In what country do they have progressive fines for speeding resulting in a ticket over $100,000?